One of the most iconic figures to come out of Japan’s history and lore is that of the ninja. Especially prominent in film and animated features, these black clad assassins and spies have become popular in modern culture across the globe. But what do we really know about them? For writers interested in writing about them it is important to differentiate fact from fiction, as historical records about ninja are scarce. Who were the ninja? What did they do? What were they like? These are some of the questions about the shadow warriors Xlibris Publishing will explore in Ninjas: The Warrior in Shadow, to help you the authors in writing about them.
Who and What were the Ninja?
The ninja were mercenaries, serving as spies, saboteurs, raiders, and assassins during the 15th century in Japan. While mention of ninja, or shinobi as they have also been called, appear in texts as far back as the 5th century, it is unclear and unlikely they are referring to the same figures as those in the 15th century onward. The ninja rose to their arguable height during the Sengoku Era, the Warring States Era. During the Sengoku Period, amidst the near constant fighting and instability, demand for the ninja’s services was at its height. Ninja had found a niche in carrying out tasks for the various warlords and nobles, tasks seen as beneath the dignity and honor of the samurai. These tasks included the above spying, sabotage, raiding, and assassination. For example, a warlord needed a well-defended rival killed but did not want to risk the losses to his own army. Instead of open battle the warlord would hire ninja to ambush and kill his rival. Costly, but less costly than openly and directly fighting his rival.
Myths and Facts of the Ninja
Much about the ninja is shrouded in myth and due to their secretive natures few credible, historical records exist. As such it can be a chore to divide history from myth. For instance, the appearance of ninja has been heavily blurred between history and folklore. The popular look of the ninja is that of a figure fully clad in black, however there is no written account that actually confirms that idea. More than likely ninja dressed inconspicuously in peasant and travel garb, when not disguising themselves as servants for infiltration purposes. The black-clad figure is likely widely known thanks to classical Japanese artworks and theater costumes.
Another prevalent misconception regarding ninja is their use of certain weapons, most especially throwing knives and throwing stars. As with smoke bombs and spiked caltrops, knives and stars were used to hinder and deter pursuers, after a mission has been accomplished or a target slain.
Xlibris Publishing will return with Ninjas: The Warriors in Shadow in part 2.
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By Ian Smith